All - Leep Calendar

Founded in 2015 by professional photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam, The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards spotlights the lighter side of the animal kingdom by celebrating wild animals captured in amusing, spontaneous poses; the competition emphasizes the importance of wildlife conservation while providing a humorous respite from the world's challenges.

Beyond evoking laughter, the awards aim to raise awareness about wildlife conservation. In partnership with the Born Free Foundation, the competition underscores the message that safeguarding wildlife can be fun.

The awards feature multiple categories, including "On the Land," "Under the Sea," and "In the Air," to name a few. Each category encourages photographers to submit candid shots of animals in humorous situations or poses.

Entrants come from around the world; the competition has grown in popularity since its inception. Winning images have been featured in international media, emphasizing both the photographers' talent and the animal subjects' charm.

The competition concludes with an annual awards ceremony. In addition to category winners, an overall winner receives the title of "Comedy Wildlife Photographer of the Year."

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards, with its unique blend of humor and conservation messaging, has become a favorite among both professional and amateur photographers globally. It serves as a reminder of nature's joyful moments and the responsibility humans have to protect it.

Africa

Oct

Kimchi Fest (US-PA): October 7

06:20 AM | -

Created in 2022, the Kimchi Fest in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States, celebrates the dish and Korean culture with food tables, a Korean cultural market, live performances of K-pop and traditional Korean music, dance, and Hanbok fashion and cultural workshops.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made primarily from salted and fermented vegetables, napa cabbage, and Korean radishes, with various seasonings, including chili powder, scallions, garlic, and ginger. The dish dates back to the third to fourth centuries when it was salted vegetables without the spicy ingredients of today.

The introduction of chili peppers from the Americas in the late 16th century transformed kimchi's flavor profile. This addition marked the birth of the red, spicy kimchi known and loved today.

More than just food, kimchi holds profound cultural and symbolic meaning for Koreans. Making kimchi, known as "Kimjang," involves families gathering to prepare large quantities for the winter months. UNESCO recognized Kimjang as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013.

Kimchi's fermentation process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, similar to yogurt. Plus, it features a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.

With the global spread of Korean cuisine, kimchi has gained international recognition. Its unique blend of spice, tang, and crunch has earned it a place on tables worldwide, both as a side dish and a versatile ingredient in various recipes.

Africa

Nov

Kimchi Day, National: November 22

06:20 AM | -

National Kimchi Day is celebrated in the United States, South Korea, and Argentina.

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made primarily from salted and fermented vegetables, napa cabbage, and Korean radishes, with various seasonings, including chili powder, scallions, garlic, and ginger. The dish dates back to the third to fourth centuries when it was salted vegetables without the spicy ingredients of today.

The introduction of chili peppers from the Americas in the late 16th century transformed kimchi's flavor profile. This addition marked the birth of the red, spicy kimchi known and loved today.

More than just food, kimchi holds profound cultural and symbolic meaning for Koreans. Making kimchi, known as "Kimjang," involves families gathering to prepare large quantities for the winter months. UNESCO recognized Kimjang as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2013.

Kimchi's fermentation process encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, similar to yogurt. Plus, it features a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.

With the global spread of Korean cuisine, kimchi has gained international recognition. Its unique blend of spice, tang, and crunch has earned it a place on tables worldwide, both as a side dish and a versatile ingredient in various recipes.

Africa

Dec

Anti-Corruption Excellence Award (ACE) Awards: December 9

06:20 AM | -

Annually on International Anti-corruption Day, The Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Anti-Corruption Excellence Award or ACE Award is an international recognition established to honor and support the global fight against corruption. Named after Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, the award underscores the commitment of the nation and its leadership to promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

The award aims to recognize and honor the significant contributions of individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide in preventing and combating corruption. The broader objective is to foster zero tolerance towards corruption and inspire more individuals and institutions to participate in anti-corruption efforts actively.

The award features several categories: research, youth creativity, innovative projects, and lifetime or outstanding achievement. Each highlights a different aspect or approach to the battle against corruption.

Nominees undergo a stringent evaluation process. An independent committee of experts from different world regions assesses the contributions based on their impact, innovation, sustainability, and cooperation.

An annual award ceremony is held in different countries, bringing together leaders, activists, and stakeholders worldwide. The event honors the awardees and serves as a platform for discussions, networking, and sharing best practices in anti-corruption efforts.

The award is in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This partnership underscores the global nature of the initiative and aligns it with the broader international efforts against corruption.

Over the years, the award has shed light on many outstanding anti-corruption efforts, giving them a global platform. It has significantly inspired and motivated activists, policymakers, and institutions to enhance their anti-corruption initiatives.

The Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is a testament to the global commitment to eliminating corruption, promoting best practices, and celebrating those who lead the way in creating a more transparent and accountable world.

Africa

Oct

IMF World Bank Summit (MO): October 9-15

06:20 AM | -

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank Group Annual Meetings provide a forum for international cooperation on financial and economic issues. Attended by central bankers, ministers of finance, private sector executives, representatives from civil society organizations, and academics from 192 countries, these meetings play a pivotal role in global economic governance.

While the primary focus is on the work of the IMF and World Bank, the meetings also encompass seminars, regional briefings, and press conferences, which foster dialogue and understanding of global financial and economic challenges.

The meeting, typically held in the fall, is critical for discussing pressing global economic issues and formulating strategies to address them.

Key points covered include:

Global Economic Outlook: One of the focal points of the summit was the global economic forecast. Amidst a backdrop of economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, discussions centered around inflation rates, unemployment, fiscal policies, and sustainable economic growth. The IMF presented its World Economic Outlook report, providing insights and projections for the upcoming year.

Debt Relief: In light of the pandemic's economic strain on many nations, debt relief was a significant topic. The World Bank and the IMF deliberated on ways to assist heavily indebted countries, especially those in the developing world, in managing their debt burdens.

Climate Change: With the growing urgency of climate change, the summit emphasized the economic implications of environmental challenges. Topics included green financing, sustainable infrastructure projects, and economic strategies to combat climate change.

Digital Economy: As digital transformation accelerates globally, discussions encompassed the rise of cryptocurrencies, digital banking, and how digital economies are integrated and regulated to ensure financial stability.

Inclusive Growth: Leaders stressed the importance of ensuring that economic growth is inclusive, focusing on strategies to reduce income inequality, promote gender equality in the financial sector, and ensure that economic policies benefit all segments of society.

Pledges and Initiatives: The summit concluded with several nations and institutions pledging support for various global economic initiatives, ranging from infrastructure development in emerging economies to research grants for sustainable technologies.

Africa

Oct

Zindajan Earthquakes (AF)(2023): October 8-11

06:20 AM | -

Between October 8-15, 2023, Afghanistan suffered four 6.3-magnitude earthquakes near Herat. The United Nations reported that the quakes resulted in over 3,000 deaths, while hundreds are still unaccounted for.

Key details include:

The first two earthquakes have impacted more than 11,000 residents in the Zindajan district, with every home reportedly destroyed. The U.N.'s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs notes over 300 families affected in other areas.

As rescue operations proceed, mainly involving villagers using rudimentary tools to sift through the rubble, the casualty count is expected to grow. Local hospitals need help coping with the influx of injured patients.

The U.N. has allocated $5 million from the Afghanistan Emergency Reserve for relief initiatives in response to the tragedy. While countries like Pakistan, Iran, and China have pledged aid, some organizations, including World Vision Afghanistan, believe that more than international assistance is needed.

The U.S. has refrained from providing direct aid after the earthquakes, but Secretary of State Anthony Blinken stated that U.S. humanitarian allies are assisting with urgent relief.

A third 6.3 earthquake hit the region early on the morning of the 11th. Many of the dead are still buried under the rubble of the original two earthquakes. By the 11th, the death toll from those was nearing 3,000. More casualties are expected due to this third quake.

A fourth 6.3 earthquake hit Haret on October 15, 2023, adding at least two more people to the death toll.

The region is no stranger to seismic activity. A June 2022 earthquake near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border resulted in over 1,000 casualties. The recent natural disaster exacerbates Afghanistan's challenges, with the Taliban takeover in 2021 leading to heightened food scarcity and poverty among its population.

Africa

Sep

Day of Reunification (RU)(2022): September 30

06:20 AM | -

Russian President Vladimir Putin commemorated the first Day of Reunification on September 30, 2023, marking the anniversary of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics and the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions becoming part of the Russian Federation.

On September 30, 2022, these regions were officially incorporated into Russia, following what Putin described as a "defining and truly historic event." He emphasized that, via referendums conducted in line with international norms, millions in these areas had chosen to align with their "Fatherland."

The Russian leader took a moment to reflect on the courage and resilience of these regions' inhabitants. According to Putin, Russia's decisions were made despite significant external pressure, including intimidation efforts and what he termed as nationalist-driven attempts to strip them of their cultural and linguistic heritage.

He referenced the events of 2014 in Kyiv, criticizing "nationalists and their Western patrons" for instigating a coup and subsequently sparking a large-scale civil conflict. This turmoil, Putin asserted, led to significant hardship in Donbas, including constant shelling and punitive actions.

In his speech, Putin passionately spoke of the unity between the Russian people and the residents of the newly incorporated territories. He noted that the recent elections in these regions reaffirmed their commitment to being part of Russia and expressed gratitude towards their contributions to Russia's strength and unity.

He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to rebuild and develop these regions, mentioning the construction of schools, hospitals, roads, and cultural sites. Contributions from volunteers, religious and civil organizations, entrepreneurs, and other entities were celebrated as evidence of a united country working in harmony.

Looking forward, Putin acknowledged that challenges remain. He voiced his commitment to implementing a comprehensive program for the socioeconomic revival of these historically significant regions.

In announcing the new holiday, the Russian President expressed his gratitude to the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republic residents and the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. "Thanks to you, your fortitude and determination, Russia has become even stronger," he stated. "We are one people, and together we can overcome anything and meet any challenge."

Ending his address, Putin wished everyone a happy Day of Reunification with Russia.

Africa

Oct

testing

06:20 AM | -

dfsdfsd

Africa

Oct

Hamas Raids Israel (IL/PS)(2023): October 7

06:20 AM | -

This is an evolving story written from the day it occurred. It will be fully updated for the 2024 anniversary.

On October 7, as the sun rose, Hamas crossed into Israel and attacked several towns and a kibbutz. The tactic was unprecedented in the history of the ongoing occupation. Typically, Israel strikes first, and battles are confined to Palestinian territory, towns, and cities, limiting casualties to Palestinians and shielding Israeli citizens from the realities of the attacks. This time, for the first time, a coordinated attack occurred in Israel led by a Palestinian organization.

From the Palestinian perspective:
At 6:30 AM local time on October 7, 2023, Hamas, a political organization with a military resistance wing, the Qassam Brigade, in the Gaza Strip, invaded several towns and kibbutz in Israel, wreaking havoc, kidnapping civilians, and capturing soldiers while bombing various civilian and military targets. The attack followed years of abuse, the daily and systematic terrorization of the Palestinian population, and recent incursions into Al Aqsa Mosque and other non-Jewish holy sites in Israel and the Occupied Territories.

The Israelis were caught entirely off guard, suffering hundreds of casualties, including deaths. News of the offensive reached the Palestinian people, many of whom celebrated in the streets. Celebrations centered on the fact that the Palestinians were finally fighting back after decades of living under apartheid and an illegal occupation that has decimated their way of life, homes, culture, businesses, and communities.

From the Israeli perspective:
At 6:30 AM local time on October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists launched a murderous attack and invaded Israel, kidnapping innocent civilians and soldiers in a cowardly, unprovoked attack. After the initial shock, Israel declared war on Hamas and all supporting it, vowing to deliver a decisive military operation like none seen before. Israel immediately launched airstrikes on the Gaza Strip, issued a 48-hour civilian order, and reasserted its right to defend itself from the unwarranted terrorist attack. Israeli citizens near the borders were told to go to shelters, and the reserves were called up.

The Israelis consider this a tremendous failure in intelligence and an embarrassment. The fate of the current administration is in doubt, given that historically, when embarrassed, they tend to be replaced in the next few months.
__________

As is the custom, Western media adopts the Israeli position while reporting in the rest of the world focuses more on context and the events leading up to this latest combat situation. However, behind the scenes, given the escalation of oppression of the Palestinians since the right-wing government assumed control in 2022, few are surprised. Diplomats and political scientists have been warning that the oppression and injustice were due to push the Palestinians over the edge, resulting in an explosion of violence. It is quite possible that October 7, 2023, is the beginning of the Third Intifada (uprising) against the occupation. At least 100 Israelis and six Palestinian insurgents were killed in the first hours. Eighteen hours in, 250 Israelis and 273 Palestinians were confirmed dead.

Israel is one of nine nuclear-armed states with one of the ten most powerful militaries in the world. It conquered 2/3 of the land set aside by the international agreement for a Palestinian state in 1948 and has occupied the remaining land since 1967.

Hamas came into being on December 14, 1987, as a response to the First Intifada. It has a militia of volunteers armed with portable weapons. It does not have nuclear weapons, tanks, ships, airplanes, helicopters, a standing army, or other military advantages. Hamas sees itself like Ireland's Shin Fein, Algeria's ALNF, and the American colonists fighting against England—all of whom were called terrorists by the states they opposed. Israel and many nation-states consider Hamas a terrorist group. Hamas and its supporters consider themselves rebels and freedom fighters.

Under international law, Israel and the Palestinians each have the right to defend themselves. Neither has the right to defend the occupation or conduct offensive operations against civilians.

Historically, roughly 12-15 Palestinians are killed for each Israeli when Israel retaliates. By October 1, over 200 Palestinians, mostly civilians, and 30 Israelis had been killed by each other, making it the deadliest year without a major military engagement since the early 2000s. This new conflict has all the ingredients to be one of the longest and bloodiest protracted battles since Israel's inception.

Africa

Oct

Infection Preventionists (IP) Week, Intl.: October 15-21

06:20 AM | -

International Infection Preventionist, or IP Week, began in 1986 and celebrates the men and women on the frontlines of disease and infection prevention. An Infection Preventionist (IP) is a healthcare professional who works to prevent and control the spread of infections in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. Their role is crucial because infections, including those resistant to antibiotics, can spread quickly in these settings, causing serious illness or even death.

Here are some of the critical duties of an Infection Preventionist:

Surveillance: IPs regularly monitor and analyze infection data from various hospital departments to identify trends and outbreaks. They might use sophisticated software to help with this.

Education: IPs provide training and education to healthcare staff on infection prevention and control best practices. They may also be responsible for educating patients and their families.

Policy Development and Implementation: IPs often develop and implement infection control policies and procedures. They must ensure that these policies comply with local, state, and federal regulations and guidelines from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

Outbreak Management: If an infection outbreak occurs, IPs take the lead in managing it, including identifying the source, implementing control measures, and evaluating their effectiveness.

Consultation: IPs work with other healthcare professionals on preventing and controlling infections related to anything from a specific patient case to the design of a new healthcare facility.

Research and Quality Improvement: IPs participate in research to develop new infection prevention and control techniques. They also lead and participate in quality improvement initiatives related to infection prevention.

Collaboration: IPs often collaborate with other professionals such as microbiologists, epidemiologists, public health officials, and hospital administrators. They might also be part of an interdisciplinary Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) committee.

Infection Preventionists typically have a background in nursing, medical technology, microbiology, or public health. They also usually have specialized certification in infection control, such as the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC) certification. Their role is critical in healthcare settings to protect patients and staff from infectious diseases.

Africa

Oct

Boyfriend Day, Ntl: October 3

06:20 AM | -

October 3 is National Boyfriend Day, a day to celebrate the pre-marital romantic bond between a man and a woman; in today's society, it can also describe the romantic relationship between two men. This event simply appeared on the internet in 2014 and gained wide acceptance in 2016.

Boyfriend is an informal honorarium. The term "boyfriend" originates in English, dating back to the 19th Century. Initially, "boy" denoted a young male, while "friend" signified a close acquaintance. Over time, the combined term began to describe a woman's male companion, especially when the relationship held romantic or intimate implications. In modern times, the gender-ubiquitous word "partner" often replaces the word "boyfriend."

Evolution of Dating in Western Culture

Courtship in the 18th and 19th centuries: Before the concept of dating took hold, Western societies practiced courtship. This formal process involved a young man seeking permission from a woman's parents to court her. The intention was marriage, and activities took place in the family setting.

The Rise of "Calling" in the Late 19th Century: As urban areas grew, the practice of "calling" emerged. Young men would visit women in their homes, where they'd engage in supervised conversations in the parlor.

The Advent of Modern Dating in the Early 20th Century: The cultural shifts following World War I and the popularization of the automobile ushered in significant cultural changes in the 1920s. Unsupervised dating became the norm. With more leisure opportunities, couples began meeting outside the home in social settings like movie theaters and dance halls.

Post-World War II and the 'Baby Boom': The end of World War II brought a return to traditional values. The rate of marriages surged, and there was an emphasis on starting families.

The Sexual Revolution and the '60s and '70s: With the arrival of birth control and legalized abortion, a cultural shift in attitudes toward sex led to more liberal dating behaviors. Relationships became less formal, and "hooking up" gained traction.

The '80s and '90s: This period saw a resurgence of traditional dating norms amidst rising concerns about AIDS. At the same time, personal advertisements in newspapers and early online dating began to emerge.

The Digital Age and 21st Century: The rise of the internet and smartphones led to a boom in online dating. Platforms like Match.com and apps like Tinder and Bumble transformed how couples meet. The idea of "swiping" left or right became ingrained in dating culture.

Throughout history, economic factors, technological advancements, and social mores have influenced the concept of dating. Today, dating in Western culture blends tradition, gender fluidity, and modernity, influenced by personal choice, cultural trends, and technology.

Africa

Oct

Hug a Kevin Day, Ntl.: October 10

06:20 AM | -

National Hug a Kevin Day originated in 2017 with ABC, an American television network. Its purpose was to promote its show "Kevin Can F*k Himself."

The objective of National Hug a Kevin Day (aside from driving viewership to the show) was to gain an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records for the most hugs in a single day. That didn't happen. The series was canceled after one season.

Of course, like most things on the internet, confusion surrounds the day, with various sites declaring April 20 or October 3 as Kevin Day and leaving it up to the Xsphere (previously Twittersphere) to decide. However, with the deposing of Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy on October 3, 2023, the first time a speaker has been removed in US history, that date may go down in history. The original day, regardless, is October 10.

Origin of the name "Kevin"

Originating from the Irish name "Caoimhín" (pronounced "kee-veen"), the name Kevin is derived from the Old Irish "coem," meaning "kind, gentle, handsome," and "gein," meaning "birth." Historically, Saint Caoimhín, anglicized as Saint Kevin, was a 6th-century Irish monk who founded the monastery of Glendalough in County Wicklow, Ireland. Over time, the name's popularity spread beyond Ireland, especially into English-speaking countries.

Notable Kevins:

Kevin Costner - An award-winning American actor, film director, and producer known for roles in television and film, including "Dances with Wolves," "Yellowstone," and "Field of Dreams."

Kevin Hart - American comedian, actor, and producer recognized for his stand-up specials and roles in films like "Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle" and "Central Intelligence."

Kevin Bacon - Namesake for the popular party game "Six Degrees of Keven Bacon," in which people name others who are associated with him by varying degrees, the acclaimed American actor is featured in movies including "Footloose," "A Few Good Men," and "Apollo 13."

Kevin Spacey - American actor and producer known for his roles in "American Beauty," "The Usual Suspects," and the television series "House of Cards," though his reputation tanked in recent years due to accusations of sexual impropriety.

Kevin Durant - Professional American basketball player, NBA MVP, and multiple-time NBA champion.

Kevin Garnett - Retired professional American basketball player, 2004 NBA MVP, and NBA champion in 2008 with the Boston Celtics.

Kevin Kline - American actor known for his roles in movies like "A Fish Called Wanda," "In & Out," and "The Big Chill."

Kevin Smith - American filmmaker, actor, and public speaker known for creating films such as "Clerks," "Mallrats," and "Dogma."

Kevin Jonas - American musician and actor, a member of the pop rock band the Jonas Brothers.

Kevin Feige - American film producer and president of Marvel Studios, credited with creating the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The name reached its height of popularity in the United States in the early 1960s and in Germany in the 1990s after the release of "Home Alone," a film where the protagonist is named Kevin.

Africa

Oct

Arlington International Film Festival (US-MA): October 16

06:20 AM | -

The Arlington International Film Festival (AIFF) showcases a diverse array of films from both local and international filmmakers, fostering a unique platform for cultural exchange in the heart of Massachusetts.

Founded in 2010, the AIFF has quickly emerged as a premier event, celebrating the art of filmmaking and its power to bridge cultures. The festival screens a curated selection of narrative and documentary films, animated works, and shorts each year, spanning various genres and themes. The festival also hosts panel discussions, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, workshops, and networking events, enhancing the cinematic experience for attendees and professionals alike.

Local schools and colleges play an integral role in the festival, with a specific segment dedicated to student film submissions. This initiative underscores AIFF’s commitment to nurturing young talent and giving budding filmmakers a platform to share their visions.

Africa

Sep

Marrakech Earthquake (MO)(2023): September 8

06:20 AM | -

A devastating 6.8-magnitude earthquake rocked Morocco on Friday, September 8, 2023, shortly after 23:00. Less than 14 hours later, the quake already claimed over 1,000 lives, making it the most lethal earthquake the North African nation has experienced in over 120 years.

Most of the fatalities occurred in the province of Al Haouz, situated west of the quake's epicenter and south of the famed city of Marrakech. Marrakech, a hub of economic and cultural activities, is frequented by tourists from around the globe.

Its epicenter was pinpointed in the High Atlas mountains, roughly 72 kilometers (45 miles) southwest of Marrakech, a city with a population nearing 840,000. Marrakech's renowned historic walls, which date back to the early 12th century, its signature mosque, and its landmark areas sustained significant damage.

Global and local rescue efforts face challenges accessing some of the worst-hit areas due to road obstructions caused by debris from centuries-old buildings and mountainous terrain.

Africa

Dec

King's College Christmas Carols & Festival of Nine Lessons (UK): December 24

06:20 AM | -

Held annually at Cambridge's Kings College in England, the Kings College Christmas Carols & Festival of Nine Lessons has been a Christmas Eve tradition since 1918 and a live broadcast since 1928. Each year the carols and readings change, with millions of people around the world tuning in via radio, internet, and television.

Africa